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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Analytical Chemistry 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97039  Diploma in Analytical Chemistry 
ORIGINATOR
Walter Sisulu University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Physical Sciences 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0733/25  2024-06-30  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
80155  National Diploma: Analytical Chemistry  Level 6  NQF Level 06  360  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
The purpose of this diploma is to provide specialised knowledge and skills to address occupational and skills shortages in various chemical and allied industries, including pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, food, mining, petrochemicals, automotive, environmental management, wastewater management, pollution control, waste disposal and recycling, agriculture, research, and health. The qualification empowers graduates to innovate and develop business ideas into successful products or services, contributing to the emerging economy.
Graduates will gain a deep understanding of chemical processes, proficiency in laboratory equipment, and the ability to develop innovative solutions for industry challenges. They will be equipped with practical skills in analytical techniques, safety protocols, and quality control measures, preparing them for roles such as laboratory technicians, scientists, quality control managers, and laboratory managers.

This qualification aligns with national standards for chemical engineering and is recognised by professional bodies such as the South African Chemical Institute (SACI) and the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). The qualification was developed in consultation with internal and external stakeholders, advisory boards and industry players. Graduates are encouraged to register with these organisations to enhance their career prospects and professional development.

Graduates can pursue further studies, including advanced diplomas and postgraduate qualifications, ensuring continuous professional growth. They can occupy technical positions in chemical and allied industries, including roles as laboratory technicians, scientists, quality control managers, and laboratory managers, or even start their own businesses. This qualification equips graduates with the technical proficiency, analytical skills, industry readiness, and entrepreneurial skills needed for successful careers and further academic pursuits.

The purpose and design of this qualification facilitate the development of the following graduate attributes and ensure that the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs) listed below, which emanate from the purpose, are achieved:

Graduate attributes:
  • Reflect and explore diverse strategies to enhance learning effectiveness.
  • Actively participate as responsible citizens in local, national, and global communities.
  • Demonstrate cultural and aesthetic sensitivity across various social contexts.
  • Contribute significantly to the social and economic development of South African society.

    Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Apply mathematical, physical, and chemical principles to laboratory and production tasks, including preparing organic and inorganic compounds using standard synthetic and purification procedures.
  • Conduct and interpret wet chemical and instrumental analyses using prescribed laboratory procedures and perform calculations to report and evaluate results to meet quality assurance and quality control standards.
  • Report and assess results obtained from analyses and calculations and perform relevant Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures to ensure processes remain within designated limits.
  • Utilise computer skills relevant to the chemical laboratory and use interpersonal and communication skills to facilitate teamwork in the working environment.
  • Perform all assigned work in compliance with relevant occupational health, safety, and environmental laws, legislation, and regulations; adhere to established policies and procedures; uphold ethical principles and apply problem-solving skills to issues in the work environment.
  • Develop a plan for continued professional growth. This reflects the ability to take responsibility for one's learning and development.
  • Apply entrepreneurial skills and innovative thinking to identify, evaluate, and develop business opportunities within the field of Analytical Chemistry.

    Rationale:
    In an era of dynamic industrial shifts and growing global demand for specialised expertise, the need for skilled professionals in the chemical and chemical-allied industries is evident. Roles such as analytical chemistry technicians, water control officers, water quality analysts, environmental scientists, and quality control specialists are particularly scarce due to high demand.
    This diploma qualification provides specialised knowledge and practical skills tailored to address the acute shortages in these industries. It aims to produce graduates with focused knowledge and hands-on expertise. The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry prepares aspiring professionals for roles such as manufacturing research chemist, chemical technologist, and quality control analyst. It also empowers graduates to explore entrepreneurial ventures, transforming ideas into successful products or services.

    The curriculum and structure of this diploma have been developed in close consultation with recognised professional bodies and industry stakeholders. Professional advisory boards are constituted by members from the industry relevant to our field of expertise. This kind of interaction helps us maintain relevance and re-align (where necessary) to serve the needs of the industry. The diploma in Analytical Chemistry at WSU was developed in consultation with key reports such as the Chemical Industries Education and Training National Skills Development Plan (NSDP), NDP, and ETDP SETA. These documents highlight critical skills shortages in health and safety, manufacturing, human resources, and agriculture. There is a high demand for quality control managers, research chemists, analytical chemistry technicians, water quality analysts, and environmental scientists. This qualification addresses these gaps by equipping learners with essential skills needed in the chemical and allied industries.
    The qualification targets National Senior Certificate (NSC) graduates with a diploma (D) or bachelor's (B) endorsement. Prospective learners with a Senior Certificate (SC) or a National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)) at Level 4 can also be admitted. Graduates of this qualification are well-prepared for a range of future occupations, including roles as analytical chemistry technicians, water control officers, water quality analysts, environmental scientists, and quality control specialists. They are also equipped to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, leveraging their specialised knowledge to innovate and create new products or services.

    The diploma serves as a foundation for further academic growth, leading to an Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) and postgraduate qualifications like a Postgraduate Diploma or Honours degree (NQF Level 8), ultimately paving the way to a Master's and Doctoral degree in Chemistry. Graduates can register with professional bodies like SACI and SACNASP.

    This diploma is a strategic investment in human capital development, aligning with national and international priorities such as enhancing health and safety standards, advancing manufacturing capabilities, and supporting environmental sustainability. It empowers learners to occupy vital positions across various sectors, contributing to economic growth, innovation, and societal well-being regionally and globally. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    WSU's RPL policy aligns with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) principles and the Council on Higher Education (CHE), ensuring compliance with national standards. WSU applies Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to broaden access to higher education and ensure that RPL is correctly used for access and, where applicable, advanced standing or exemption.

    For the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry, RPL offers an alternative route for admission, with faculties, in consultation with the registrar's division, assessing prior learning against specific qualification requirements. The assessment process includes interviews, portfolios, and practical evaluations. RPL also allows for module exemptions or advanced standing, recognising prior learning as equivalent to certain modules, potentially reducing the required credit points.

    Entry Requirements:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with endorsement.
  • Senior Certificate (SC), NQF Level 4.
  • National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)), NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 5 and a combination of compulsory and elective modules at Level 6, totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 69 Credits:
  • Chemistry I (T and P),15 Credits.
  • Computer Skills I,10 Credits.
  • Mathematics I,10 Credits.
  • Physics I (T and P),10 Credits.
  • Analytical Chemistry I,15 Credits.
  • Communication Skills I, 9 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 231 Credits:
    Analytical Chemistry II, 12 Credits.
    Analytical Chemistry: Practical II, 12 Credits.
    Inorganic Chemistry II (T and P), 12 Credits.
    Organic Chemistry II (T and P), 12 Credits.
    Physical Chemistry II (T and P), 12 Credits.
    Physical Chemistry III (T and P), 17 Credits.
    Inorganic Chemistry III (T and P), 17 Credits.
    Organic Chemistry III (T and P), 17 Credits.
    Chemical Quality Assurance, 12 Credits.
    Analytical Chemistry III, 24 Credits.
    Analytical Chemistry: Practical III, 24 Credits.
    Experiential Training, 60 Credits.

    Elective Modules, NQF Level 6, 60 Credits.
  • Physics II, level 6, 12 Credits.
  • Mathematics II, level 6, 12 Credits.
  • Polymer Chemistry, level 6, 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Process Industries II, level 6, 12 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurial Skills I, 12 Credits.
    OR
  • Chemistry Project III, 60 Credits 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply mathematical, physical, and chemical principles to laboratory and production tasks, including preparing organic and inorganic compounds using standard synthetic and purification procedures.
    2. Conduct and interpret wet chemical and instrumental analyses using prescribed laboratory procedures and perform calculations to report and evaluate results to meet quality assurance and quality control standards.
    3.Report and assess results obtained from analyses and calculations and perform relevant Quality 4. Assurance and Quality Control procedures to ensure processes remain within designated limits.
    4.Utilise computer skills relevant to the chemical laboratory and use interpersonal and communication skills to facilitate teamwork in the working environment.
    5.Perform all assigned work in compliance with relevant occupational health, safety, and environmental laws, legislation, and regulations; adhere to established policies and procedures; uphold ethical principles and apply problem-solving skills to issues in the work environment.
    6.Develop a plan for continued professional growth. This reflects the ability to take responsibility for one's learning and development.
    7.Apply entrepreneurial skills and innovative thinking to identify, evaluate, and develop business opportunities within the field of Analytical Chemistry. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply mathematical skills to perform accurate and comprehensive data analyses, including algebraic equations, functions, factors, ratios, conversions, and linear regressions.
  • Utilise principles of physics, such as heat, sound, light, electricity, and mechanics, to effectively use instrumentation within the chemical laboratory.
  • Implement principles of general chemistry, including nomenclature, acid/base theory, stoichiometric calculations, and chemical reactions, in conducting precise chemical analyses and syntheses.
  • Integrate organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry principles in performing detailed analyses and syntheses.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply principles of instrument theory and prescribed techniques for the effective collection, preparation, and analysis of samples, including calibrating standard laboratory equipment using appropriate materials for quantitative and qualitative chemical analyses.
  • Operate and calibrate spectrometric, electrometric, and chromatographic instruments, along with their associated data systems, for precise qualitative and quantitative analyses, and perform physical tests such as melting points, boiling points, density, and refractive index on chemicals and materials.
  • Prepare solutions of known concentrations and perform appropriate dilutions for laboratory procedures, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
  • Manage time, equipment, and materials cost-effectively when performing analyses, demonstrating efficiency and resourcefulness.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Report data from quantitative and qualitative analyses in the required format, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
  • Perform relevant mathematical and statistical calculations using the recorded data to evaluate and interpret the results effectively.
  • Verify the accuracy of recorded data and calculations through peer review or secondary checks to ensure the reliability and validity of the results.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Utilise software packages to express, manipulate, and present chemical technology information.
  • Set up and use computers for monitoring laboratory automation and quality control.
  • Employ relevant software to acquire, store, retrieve, and process laboratory data.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Perform all procedures according to established workplace safety protocols and ethical guidelines, recognising the influence of chemistry on society in terms of environmental, health, and safety impacts.
  • Comply with environmental, health, and safety legislation and related regulations, including the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System and the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
  • Apply specific industrial practices such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), and ISO standards to ensure compliance within the working environment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
    Identify strategies for continued professional development and develop plans to upgrade skills in response to technological changes.
    Demonstrate the ability to work in various practice locations and types and process relevant literature to stay current.
    Apply self-knowledge of strengths, weaknesses, and goals to improve professional competence, and recognise the role of professional associations and certification.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
    Identify and evaluate business opportunities within the field of Analytical Chemistry, demonstrating an understanding of market needs and industry challenges.
    Develop a comprehensive business plan for a potential venture in the chemical industry, showcasing entrepreneurial skills.
    Apply innovative thinking to create solutions that address market needs and industry challenges, ensuring the feasibility and sustainability of the proposed venture.

    Integrated Assessment
    The assessment for this qualification encompasses theory, practicals, tests, assignments, and examinations. Continuous evaluation is applied across all modules, integrating learning across each year and ensuring that the exit level outcomes are developed and assessed in an integrated manner.
    Knowledge outcomes will be assessed primarily through tests, assignments, projects, and examinations. These assessments will require learners to demonstrate their ability to use fundamental principles to analyse and solve analytical chemistry problems.

    Outcomes that require insight and analysis will be assessed through assignments and laboratory reports. These tasks require learners to conceptualise, discuss, evaluate, and illustrate theoretical concepts to solve problems.

    Work Integrated learning Assessment:
    In the third year of study, learners will be assessed holistically through project reports, a portfolio of evidence, and an oral presentation. These assessments are designed to meet the needs and requirements of the chemistry industry.
    This approach ensures learners can demonstrate their practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and professional conduct in a real-world setting, aligning with the qualification's exit-level outcomes.

    Formative Assessment:
    Assessed through the effective use of tools and techniques to create appropriate solutions in case studies or project environments. This will be evaluated mainly through practical reports and reports from work-integrated learning in an industry setting.
    Assessed through participation in group work, project work, and group assignments. These activities will require learners to plan, communicate, and work collaboratively. Formative assessments will contribute 40% to the final mark. This will be achieved through assignments, tests, and practical reports.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessments will be conducted mainly through examinations, contributing 60% to the final mark. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry at WSU aligns well with international standards, sharing similar entry requirements, core content, and career pathways with qualifications at Okanagan College, KIAS, and the University of Plymouth.

    Diploma in Analytical Chemistry
    Kenya Institute of Applied Sciences (KIAS),
    Kenya

    Entry Requirements: The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry at the Kenya Institute of Applied Sciences (KIAS) admits secondary education graduates with an average grade of C- (minus) or higher, including a C- (minus) in Chemistry, Biology/Physics, Mathematics, and English. At Walter Sisulu University (WSU), the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry requires a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent with a diploma or bachelor's endorsement, with a minimum pass of Level 4 in English and Mathematics, and Level 3 in Physical Science.

    ELOs: The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry at the Kenya Institute of Applied Sciences (KIAS) will equip learners to apply scientific knowledge, perform chemical analyses, and interpret results according to quality standards. Graduates will be proficient in using analytical instrumentation, communicating findings, and adhering to safety and ethical practices in laboratory environments, similar to exit-level outcomes for the diploma in analytical chemistry. The only significant difference is that the diploma in analytical chemistry at WSU also aims to produce graduates who can innovate and develop business ideas into successful products or services, contributing to the emerging economy.
    Content/Modules/Credits: There are similarities in the core modules offered, especially the diploma in Analytical at KIAS, which has core modules in Analytical Chemistry, Instrumental Methods of Analysis, and Laboratory Practice & Management with a shorter industrial attachment (4 months) compared to WSU's 6 months' work-integrated learning. The only difference is that the diploma in Analytical Chemistry has Biochemistry as one of its core modules, while the diploma in Analytical Chemistry at WSU has modules like entrepreneurship. Both qualifications consist of 120 credits, distributed over 3 years.
    Articulation: The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry at the Kenya Institute of Applied Sciences (KIAS) allows for vertical articulation to a Postgraduate Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or a BSc (Honours) Degree in Chemistry. For career changes, learners can also pursue horizontal articulation with other diplomas, such as a Diploma in Quality Control. This is similar to the diploma in Analytical Chemistry offered at WSU, which provides vertical articulation for the Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry (NQF Level 7) and/or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry or related fields (NQF Level 7).

    Diploma in Analytical Chemistry Technology (ACT),
    Okanagan College
    Canada

    The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry at WSU is similar to the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry Technology (ACT) offered at Okanagan College, as both qualifications aim to produce skilled professionals in the field of chemistry. The Analytical Chemistry Technology diploma at Okanagan College focuses on equipping learners with industry-relevant skills in instrumental analysis and laboratory techniques. Graduates typically find employment as chemical technologists, quality control analysts, environmental technicians, research assistants, laboratory technicians, and process technicians. They play essential roles in quality control and research for drug development in pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, environmental services, and manufacturing, thereby supporting scientific research across various sectors. In contrast, the diploma in Analytical Chemistry at WSU is designed to develop graduates with a comprehensive understanding of chemical processes and proficiency in laboratory equipment. They will also be trained to create innovative solutions for the chemical and related industries. WSU graduates will gain practical skills in analytical techniques, safety protocols, and quality control measures, preparing them for positions such as laboratory technicians, scientists, quality control managers, and laboratory managers. A notable distinction of the WSU qualification is its emphasis on fostering entrepreneurial skills, empowering graduates to start their businesses within the chemical and related industries.

    Entry Requirements: Okanagan College's qualification is designed for learners who have completed Grade 12. Specifically, applicants must have completed courses in Mathematics, English, and Chemistry, or their equivalents, with competitive grades. This ensures that learners have a solid foundation in the essential subjects for success in analytical chemistry. In contrast, the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry at WSU has a slightly different set of requirements. Applicants must possess a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification with a diploma or bachelor's endorsement. Additionally, they must have passing grades in Mathematics, English, and Physical Science with competitive grades. A notable distinction is that WSU admits learners with backgrounds in Physics and Chemistry, whereas Okanagan College only requires a background in Chemistry.
    Content / Modules: The diploma in analytical chemistry at WSU offers core modules in Wet Chemical and Instrumental Analyses and Quality Control and Assurance, specifically, analytical chemistry theory and practical modules, with advanced analytical techniques and work-integrated learning in the final year, which provides learners with practical, hands-on experience in the industry. The minimum number of credits available is 360 for the 3-year qualification. The diploma in Okanagan College in ACT has a similar course content because it offers specialised modules like Physics for Analytical Chemistry Technology, Introduction to Analytical Chemistry, Instrumentation Physics for Analytical Chemistry Technology (ACT), Chromatographic Analysis I, Physical Chemical Processes, Laboratory Instrumentation, and Mineral Processing and Assaying, which provide specialised knowledge and skills in analytical chemistry. A significant difference in the total number of credits for the qualification, specifically, ACT has 70 credits, which is offered over 2 years. Also, ACT, Okanagan College, Canada, provides no work-integrated learning modules.

    Articulation: At Okanagan University in Canada, the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry Technology offers excellent vertical articulation opportunities with bachelor's degrees in chemistry or related fields at various institutions. This is particularly advantageous for learners pursuing further research or advanced studies. Graduates with strong academic records and relevant experience may qualify for advanced standing or transfer credits towards a bachelor's degree.

    Similarly, the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry at WSU provides vertical articulation to the Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry (NQF Level 7) and/or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry or related fields (NQF Level 7)
    Both qualifications also offer horizontal articulation. The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry Technology can be horizontally articulated with other technology qualifications at Okanagan College or other institutions, especially those focused on environmental science, biotechnology, or quality control. Likewise, the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry at WSU allows for horizontal articulation to other qualifications at NQF Level 6, including, but not limited to, the Diploma in Chemical Process Technology, Diploma in Polymer Technology, and the Diploma in Chemical Engineering (NQF Level. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Diploma in Chemical Process Technology, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Polymer Technology, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Chemical Engineering, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Water Care, NQF Level 6.
  • Related Cognate qualifications at NQF level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry or related fields, NQF Level 7.
  • Related Cognate qualifications, NQF level 7.

    Diagonal articulation:
  • Given the specialised nature of this qualification, there are no qualifications for direct articulation. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Walter Sisulu University 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.